Living on an island seems like it would be paradise, right? Well, no matter where you live, you are always going to have problems because nobody’s life is perfect. In fact, you can even become afflicted with a mental illness like an anxiety disorder out of the blue for no obvious reasons. The counselors in Mercer Island are unsure of the exact cause but they know how to treat it.
Anxiety disorders can be recognized by constant and severe stress, insomnia, confusion, inability to concentrate, heart palpitations, and irritability. If you or someone you know is having any of these or similar symptoms, talk to one of the Mercer Island counselors today.
Mark Yeung
I imagine you may be experiencing a number of emotions. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the process of selecting a counselor? Hopeful about the possibility of receiving support and making change? Skeptical about how an online therapist profile can actually give you a sense of a therapist's approach and how you might be able to work with them? You're not alone. I can tell you facts about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in the States of California, Oregon and Washington. I attended the University of California, Berkeley and received Masters in Social Work (MSW) and Public Health (MPH) and have had over 10 years of experience providing counseling to the medically sick, terminally ill, the bereaved, veterans and many others. I am experienced in and often use Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and I use a Humanistic approach that is Solution-Focused. These are techniques and approaches that you can Google to learn more about me but they alone may not tell you if you and I will work well together. Beyond the technical trainings and skills, here is who I am. I believe in therapy. I believe the statement that “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care”. Practicing therapy gives me the opportunity and joy of practicing caring in a professional and skilled way. The therapy outcomes research bears this out: Across all treatment approaches, the most important correlates of positive therapy outcomes are: 1. Therapist characteristics (empathy, warmth, genuineness) 2. Alliance between therapist and client 3. Adoption of new behaviors by client Contact me if this sounds like a good fit.
Katherine Walton
Hello and Welcome! I have great respect for you for choosing counseling. I think everyone needs support sometimes, and hope our collaboration will be practical and supportive for you. I adjust counseling to your values, style of communicating, and goals for change. I am here to assist you as you make the discoveries or progress you would like to make. I am a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC, 2019); Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC in 2016, LMHCA in 2012) with the State of Washington; and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC , 2022) with the state of Maine. I earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Degree (2012), and have over 40 years of experience in human services, including parent education, teaching, and over 12 years of experience in counseling. My aim is to collaborate with clients to create a nurturing therapeutic environment in which inspiration for healing and forward movement can be visualized and actualized. I facilitate clients in discussing stressors and difficulties, envisioning and realizing goals, examining options, developing skills, viewing relationships and family dynamics, paying attention to culture and socialization, as well as understanding the process of change. The assistance and practical tools I provide are informed by my: a) breadth of life and career experience, b) belief that each client is primarily expert at dealing with their unique concerns, c) training and studies incorporating clinical theories and modalities (listed below) d) depth of conviction about how capable and resilient people can be, and e) wish to encourage and celebrate you as you practice new perspectives, actions or changes you want to make in your life. I do not provide medical advice, legal advice, or crisis services. My main areas of experience and focus include but are not limited to: Anxiety/Stress, Coping with Life Changes, Family Conflicts, Parenting, and Relationships. I am also interested in and/or experienced with: Cultural/Spiritual, Grief/Loss, Human Development, Problem Solving/Conflict Resolution and Wholistic Health perspectives/practical tools for transformative growth and change. My clinical approach and focus includes but is not limited to: Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Expressive, Family Systems, Gestalt, Lifespan Development, Mindfulness, Narrative, Solution-Focused, and Strength-Based Therapies. I use humor (whenever possible), and offer warmth and empathy in striving to be of service in ways that make a positive difference for people.
Esteban Cabrera
Hello, my name is Esteban Angel Cabrera. I am a licensed mental health counselor with over two decades of experience in a plethora of services that includes academia and community health providers. As a son of a migrant seasonal farm working family, I have experienced many challenges in my life. I longed for a sense of normalcy and stability. I learned long ago that these don't come easy or are handed to you. It can be very difficult to manage everyday life challenges let alone any major traumatic events. I am encouraged by a quote I learned long ago "never let yesterday's disappointments overshadow tomorrow's dream be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." I believe in making connection with others through validation, encouragement and guidance. We all have struggles in our lives and I believe that struggles are not failures but it means you are succeeding in "not giving up!" The counseling experience begins with developing a safe and consistent rapport that allows the counselor and client the space to grow into a healthy therapeutic alliance. Therapy can be quite difficult and having a safe environment to talk about and process life's difficulties is so very important. I am excited in working with you to help you experience the great things that life has to offer you.
Jamie Pillers
Hello, my name is Jamie Pillers. I received my undergraduate degree from Texas A&M Central Texas in Social Work. I then completed the advanced standing program at Eastern Washington University; I received my Master's Degree in Social Work. My professional experience includes 1)Child Protective Service (CPS) in Texas working to preserve families. 2) Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) working in the Social Work and Behavioral Health Service department providing case management and brief therapy to Veterans. 3) Community Mental Health Agency- providing long-term therapy and case management services. I believe that therapy is a combination of therapeutic modalities, as everyone is different, and not one therapy fits everyone. Sometimes, it is a little bit of this therapy and a little bit of that therapy. My therapy style is supportive, informative, educational, and, when necessary direct. I believe in treating everyone with respect and walking alongside you through your journey.
Randall Kahn
Hello. If you’re seeking a senior therapist, with many years of experience and continuing education, who is known for his compassion, wisdom, experience and sense of humor, you may have come to the right place. After some years as a carpenter, building and remodeling homes, I returned to school to complete a B.A. in psychology and social work followed by an M.Ed in counseling psychology. I’ve worked in a variety of settings as a therapist, starting as a psychiatric technician in a trauma care hospital in 1993, later developing a rural mental health clinic with five other therapists and my last eight years of practice in the student counseling department for the University of Wisconsin. I have been licensed in Washington state as well as in Wisconsin as an LPC. I also have a substance abuse treatment licensure. I’ve had a lot of training along the way and have learned a great deal from my clients as well. My approach to helping my clients is based in this experience, training and a caring sense of the uniqueness and value of every individual. I draw on a variety of technical models of therapy, based on what my clients seem to need and who they are. While I have provided therapy in several different settings utilizing several specialties, as a semi-retired counselor I am now focused on working with clients who are seeking support for wellness, personal growth and/or anxiety or depression, using MINDFULNESS based approaches. I consider myself very wholistic in my approach to therapy. I recognize that there is a seamless interaction of processes between the mind, body and spirit. I believe that if we fail to recognize these connections, we may miss the mark in achieving the healing and growth we're hoping for. My goal is to help you achieve this healing and growth. I look forward to working with you.
Janelle Green
I am licensed in Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, anxiety and coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
Latoya Caver Jackson Adams
I am licensed in Ohio with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Erin Burvee
I am a clinical social worker in Overland Park, Kansas with 28 years experience treating individuals with relationship conflicts, parenting struggles, grief and loss, as well as mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD. I believe firmly in the importance of continued growth and self-awareness. My therapy style is interactive and helps individuals identify their strengths as well as areas of growth. My approach uses a cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, as well as a family systems approach. Our sessions will be tailored to your specific needs. Taking the first step to ask for support and guidance is tough. It takes courage and strength to be willing to own the process and seek guidance for growth. If you are interested in taking that step, I am here to support you with your journey.
Price Cook
I am licensed in Washington with 28 years of professional work experience. I am comfortable in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ2+ and gender identity issues, & intimacy related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Monica Sagen
I am licensed in Washington with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find counseling in Mercer Island
Finding the best therapist close by in Mercer Island can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Mercer Island. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Mercer Island, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Mercer Island or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Mercer Island area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Mercer Island, elsewhere in King, or in the greater state of Washington.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Mercer Island area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Mercer Island therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Mercer Island due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Mercer Island may not take health insurance, some in the state of Washington may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Washington you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Mercer Island, Washington working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.
How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Mercer Island above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Mercer Island helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?
BetterHelp's verified Mercer Island therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Mercer Island therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Mercer Island therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.
With a lot of people in WA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 98040 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Mercer Island counselor?
Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Mercer Island licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.
Is mental health care and therapy worth it?
Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Mercer Island, Washington can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Mercer Island has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Mercer Island:
98040